A CHARITY set-up in memory of a teenager who died has launched a festive campaign so it can continue to help young people with cancer.

The Tom Bowdidge Youth Cancer Foundation has kick-started its Christmas Appeal and is calling on the generosity of the community to help them raise funds.

The non-profit organisation is dedicated to supporting people battling cancer who need financial support for everything from rent to travelling to appointments.

Throughout the pandemic, however, the charity, founded in honour of Tom Bowdidge who died of cancer aged 19, has struggled to generate the income it usually does.

Nikki Bowdidge, CEO and founder of the foundation, is now hoping the organisation’s supporters can rally round to help them help others in need this winter.

She said: “2021 has been a very tough year both because fundraising is very hard but also because the demand for our services has remained exceptionally high.

“We are bracing ourselves for an extremely busy winter and a tough winter financially so we are hoping this Christmas you might spare whatever you can afford.

“Together a little generosity from many can add up to a lot. It will make such a huge difference to those families needing us more than ever.”

To donate visit tombowdidgefoundation.org/current-appeals/donate-now.